New U.S.-Cuba travel and trade rules take effect

New U.S. rules aimed at improving relations with Cuba are in effect that will now allow Americans to visit the island for any of a dozen specific reasons. Linda So reports.

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New U.S. rules are officially in effect, aimed at easing the half-century-old embargo against Cuba.
Americans are now allowed to visit Cuba for any of a dozen specific reasons, including family visits, education and religion, without first obtaining a special permit.
The change has kept the phone lines busy at this travel agency in Miami.
SOUNDBITE: ORLANDO CONSUEGRA, TRAVEL AGENT, SAYING:
"We just had an American citizen who called us and asked us if he could go to Cuba before McDonald's gets there so that kind of rush is going through people's mind."
Americans will also be allowed to use credit cards and bring back up to $100 worth of alcohol and tobacco products from the island.
The new rules allow U.S. exports of certain technologies as well.
Many Cubans are welcoming the eased regulations hoping it will bring more business and improve the economy.

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